When Hurricane Maria made landfall on Puerto Rico, it left behind a wake of devastation still felt on the island two years later. Power went dark, roads became impassible, medical facilities became overwhelmed, the economy all but halted, and essential supplies like food and water became scare. Many native Puerto Rican's left the island in the aftermath of Maria, looking for more stability and better opportunities away from their homes.

Shortly after Maria passed, Rev. Edgardo M. Caraballo accepted the call to become the Executive Minister of the Iglesias Bautistas de Puerto Rico. He embraced the challenges which faced both his home and the Baptist Churches he was called to serve – and his story is an incredible tale of faith, perseverance, and the power of the Holy Spirit to bring hope in even the darkest of circumstances.

ABCNJ has been involved in the recovery efforts in Puerto Rico ever since teams have been permitted to travel to the island. The partnership which has been established between our two regions is one of the joys which have emerged post-Maria.

Join our family the day before Annual Session to celebrate the mission we have accomplished, the partnerships we have established, and the opportunities which will become open to all of us in the future. Come also to hear the stories of some of our ABCNJ family who have been part of the on-going work in Puerto Rico, and the impact their journeys have had on their faith.

We'll end our time together with a Puerto Rican themed dinner!